By Taran Adarsh

More and more writers are foraying into film direction. The latest to join the bandwagon is Paritosh Painter, who has acted/penned/directed a number of comedy plays, besides writing the script of Indra Kumar's laughathon DHAMAAL. Paritosh's directorial debut PAYING GUESTS, a mini multi-starrer, is ready to be unveiled to the audiences. Subhash Ghai's company Mukta Arts Entertainment has produced the film.

There's an interesting story behind Paritosh directing the film. "I had barely completed narrating a story to Subhash-ji (Ghai), when he asked me, 'Who do you suggest should direct this film?'

I could think of David Dhawan and Priyadarshan, who've helmed some great entertainers in the past. Subhash-ji heard me out and then remarked, 'Why don't you direct the film?' I was flummoxed.

I had never held a camera in my entire life. I didn't know the basics of direction. How could I direct a film? But Subhash-ji instilled confidence in me and gave me an experienced team to overcome my fears, " Paritosh recalls.

How was the experience of making a film for Subhash Ghai? It's often said that he interferes in films directed by outsiders. True?

"You know something, I was told by several people that I better watch out, that Subhash-ji interferes a lot. Forget visiting me on the sets during the shooting, he didn't even attend the mahurat ceremony. In fact, Abbas-Mustan directed the first shot of the film. It's only now, after the film was complete, did he watch the film, " Paritosh adds.

Paritosh is extremely charged about the film. "My fundas are clear. I've grown up on non-stop entertainers. I've produced plays keeping in mind the fact that the audience watching it should return home with a smile.

And my first film is also an unadulterated entertainer. I can assure you one thing. You'll step out of the auditorium with a big smile on your face. This laughathon will bowl you, " he adds.